Tiger coming back to go forward

BRISBANE is set to increase its scoring power with the addition of Queensland product Luke McGuane.

The 26-year-old originally from Broadbeach has requested a trade to the Lions after playing 105 games with Richmond since debuting in 2006.

McGuane started his career as a defender, but, while only used sparingly, has impressed when moved forward by the Tigers during the last couple of seasons.

An ideal 'third tall', the athletic 192cm marking target kicked 20 goals in 12 games in 2013, including 11 in his first five games, but struggled to cement a spot with Jack Riewoldt, Aaron Edwards and Tyrone Vickery the preferred options.

With McGuane a restricted free agent, the Tigers have the right to match any offer the Lions put forward, but are unlikely to stand in his way.

"Being a lot being closer to my family, I think I will enjoy football a lot more,'' he said.

McGuane is set to be reunited with former Tigers assistant coach Justin Leppitsch who is the new senior coach at Brisbane.

"It also helps that I get along with 'Leppa' really well on and off the field. He's been great with me the whole time he's been at Richmond, so when he went up there I saw a lot of positives in exploring a move there,'' he said.

The Lions, meanwhile, quashed rumours star midfielder Tom Rockliff would be placed on the trade table, but they look certain to lose young WA defender Elliot Yeo, with West Coast offering him a three-year contract.

While the AFL's free agency period began yesterday, the annual meat market that is the trade period starts on Monday.